What is rezoning?
Rezoning is the process of changing the rules that apply to a specific property in the Zoning By-law. The City uses zoning to make sure new buildings and uses fit well with the surrounding area and the City's Official Plan. If you want to build something that is not allowed under the current rules, or change how a property is used, you may need to apply for a rezoning.
Do you need a rezoning application?
You will need to apply if your project does not meet the standards in Zoning By-law 2016-040 or the City of Wrenford Official Plan. Common reasons to apply include:
- Changing the type of building, such as building a multi-unit dwelling on a lot zoned for a single detached house.
- Building closer to the property line than the by-law allows.
- Adding a commercial or industrial use to land that is currently zoned for residential purposes.
- Subdividing a large parcel into smaller lots for development.
If you are unsure, you can review the land use maps or contact the planning department to check your property's current rules.
The rezoning process
Changing a zoning designation is a formal process. It requires careful review to ensure the change supports the community. Here is what happens after you start.
1. Pre-application consultation
A pre-application consultation is a mandatory early meeting with planning staff. This is your chance to review your site, discuss your ideas, and learn exactly what documents you need to submit. Staff will tell you if the proposal matches the Official Plan and if it is likely to succeed.
2. Submit the application
Once you are ready, you submit the application form, required drawings, and the planning fee. The City has a two-business-day window to check that your file is complete. If anything is missing, staff will ask you to provide it before the review starts.
3. Staff review and planning report
Planning staff review the application against the Official Plan, the Zoning By-law, and other City policies. They check traffic, servicing, noise, and how the change will affect neighbours. Staff will prepare a planning report with a recommendation for Council.
4. Public notice
When an application is complete, the City must notify the public. Notices are sent to property owners within a set radius, posted on the Public Notices page, and advertised in local newspapers. This gives residents time to review the proposal and prepare comments.
5. Public hearing
Regular Council meetings are held on the second and fourth Monday of every month at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. If your application moves forward, a public hearing is scheduled during one of these meetings. A public hearing is an opportunity for Council to hear from you, neighbours, and any other interested parties before making a decision. The meeting is livestreamed so you can watch from home.
6. Council decision
After hearing all comments, Council votes on the rezoning application. They can approve it, approve it with conditions, or refuse it. If Council approves the change, a new by-law is passed to update the Zoning By-law. You will receive a formal notice of the decision.
How to participate
Rezoning applications are public matters. You can take part by:
- Reading the planning report on the planning application registry.
- Submitting written comments to the City Clerk before the public hearing.
- Speaking during the public hearing. You can register in person or ask the Clerk to allow you to speak virtually by phone or video.
Written comments must be received by the Clerk by 4:30 p.m. on the Friday before the Council meeting. Please address your comments to Mayor and Council at City Hall. Personal information in your submission will not be removed from the public record.
Application fees
Fees are set out in the Fees and Charges By-law 2025-151. The standard application fee for a rezoning request is $2,500.00. If you need an emergency review outside normal business hours, a twenty-five per cent surcharge applies. Fees cover staff time for the review, public notice, and any required engineering or traffic studies.
Need help?
If you have questions about the rezoning process or need guidance on your specific site, contact the planning department.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 519-555-0100
Address: Room 202, Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1